The top 5 scenic routes on Iceland’s F-roads
Iceland’s F-roads are the rough gravel tracks that lead through the country’s most dramatic and most challenging terrain. Known for their uneven and potholed surfaces, unbridged rivers, and often steep gradients, you need a decent 4x4 to give you the traction and clearance necessary to traverse them safely. But for those brave enough to tackle them, the reward is some of the most jaw-dropping areas of wilderness, not just in Iceland but anywhere on the planet. But which leads through the most extraordinary landscapes? Here are our picks for the top five scenic routes on Iceland’s F-roads.
The F208 or F255 to Landmannalaugar
Landmannalaugar is the colorful jewel of Iceland’s Highlands and if you’re keen to visit in summer when those vivid mineral deposits are unobscured by snowfall, then you’ll have a choice of routes, distinguished by their length and how arduous the drive is. Here, shorter may not always be best.
Landmannalaugar is famous for its rhyolite mountains, and there are hiking routes in the vicinity that lead you to some of Iceland’s most dramatic and dazzling views. The blue-black rock of the Bláhnúkur mountain is one of the biggest draws, as is the equally stunning Green Ridge hike. Many travelers relax at the end of the day in the hot springs known as the People’s Pools, so plan to stay at least one night.
The easiest way to reach Landmannalaugar is to approach from the north via the F208, which is not as challenging as coming at it from the south, also via the F208. The F255 also has a few tricky river crossings which may or may not appeal depending on how confident you are behind the wheel. If you’re planning to take on such a challenge, make sure you’re equipped with the essential gear for F-roads to handle any obstacles you might encounter along the way.
The F88 or the F901, F905 and F910 to Askja
Askja is the result of many episodes of violent volcanic activity and the collapse of a magma chamber, with significant change occurring in the aftermath of the 1875 eruption. Vast quantities of tephra and ash were ejected, making life extremely difficult for those who lived in Iceland at the time.
The F88 to Askja is another of the standout Icelandic Highlands routes, though there are easier ways to access this remarkable volcanic caldera marooned within the Ódáðahraun lava field. The road passes close to the Hrossaborg explosion crater, a huge natural amphitheater created around 10000 years ago. Further on, the table mountain Herðubreið rises beside the road, a magnificent sight particularly when snow-capped.
If you do brave the F88, know that there are several river crossings to accomplish, the last being Lindaá, the hardest of all because of the high volume of water that often flows along this powerful river. Understandably, some drivers prefer to take a different route, picking up the F901 from the ring road, followed by the F905 and then the F910. There are still river crossings, but they tend to be shallower and less stressful. After around three hours of driving, you reach the Dyngjufjöll Mountains in the north of Vatnajökull National Park where Askja is a photogenic highlight.
The F249 to Þórsmörk
This road leads to Þórsmörk, one of the most beautiful parts of Iceland’s Highlands region. The countryside along the way is as diverse as they are striking. Among its many highlights are the views of Gígjökull Glacier, an outlet of Eyjafjallajökull and Valahnúkur, a high point from which hikers can enjoy panoramic views over the valley and beyond.
Þórsmörk also boasts extraordinary canyons and groves of birch and rowan trees. This verdant landscape is a compelling reason to visit in summer before the winds of autumn strip the trees of their leaves and a blanket of winter snow wipes out any remaining color. By then you’ll need to sign up for a super jeep tour to visit, whereas earlier in the year you might explore at your own pace.
However, the F249 is not for inexperienced motorists. It is characterized by a string of challenging river crossings, the most notorious of which is the formidable Krossá. You’ll need a high clearance 4x4 and nerves of steel to tackle it yourself – and only then if you can get permission from the rental car agency. Understandably, many travelers opt to do this one as part of an organized tour.
The F206 and F207 to the Laki Craters
Laki is a volcanic system located to the southeast of Vatnajökull and Lakagígar refers to the string of 130 or so craters formed as a result of the mammoth 1783 eruption. This cataclysmic event was a catastrophe at the time for local people whose grazing lands were poisoned by noxious ash and whose livestock were decimated. Today, the tranquil scene that awaits high in this mountainous region is a far cry from those terrible days.
Today, the F206 runs right through this place. Rutted, potholed, and strewn with boulders, it’s no casual drive, but if you make it as far as the Laki car park you’ve enjoyed what might well be the ride of your life. If you make one stop on the way, it should be at Fagrifoss, an 80-meter-high and utterly splendid waterfall that’s surrounded by a moss-covered landscape.
If it wasn’t necessary to drive on an F-road to reach it – like perhaps nearby Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon – this place would be overrun with people, so fortune favors the brave. The Laki craters are no less staggering and again, it’s the vivid green tones of the moss that really set the place off. While the F206 gets you here, the F207 is a loop drive that gets you closer to the sights, so be sure to allow sufficient time to drive both.
The F821 to Laugafell
Though it’s one of the last F-roads to open thanks to the hilly terrain, you might also try the F821. The rough road winds up through the mountains to the Eyjafjardara Valley viewpoint, where you can look out over lush green summer pastures. Further on you’ll find the Laugafell campsite and hot spring. While some of Iceland’s geothermal baths throng with travelers, this one is still a hidden gem, thanks to the effort it takes to reach it.
Before you consider driving the F821 know that it is a steep and bumpy ride which can be hard on tyres – make sure you know how to change a flat. While streams tend to be small, they swell after rain; the ground can be slippery and muddy, meaning that ascents and descents can be difficult. You’ll need plenty of ground clearance and an abundance of caution. For more on driving safely and navigating the rugged terrains of Iceland, check out our guide on F-roads in Iceland.
If you’re keen to drive one or more of these scenic F-roads, it’s worth remembering that they open seasonally, typically from June or July until September. Weather impacts the precise dates, so always check online for the expected dates. It’s also good practice to research current conditions by taking a look at the Icelandic roads website which is updated regularly.
